Meet the Teachers of R.O.S.A.'s Theater and Art Courses

Julia Rhodes

I am Julia Elizabeth Rhodes, a theatre director and teacher who has had the privilege of guiding students through the vibrant world of acting, art, and music at R.O.S.A. As a director, I've brought stories to life on stage, and as a teacher, I've nurtured the creative spark within each student.

My experience with R.O.S.A. has been a masterpiece of creativity, passion, and growth. I've had the joy of directing plays, teaching acting classes to both kids and adults, and collaborating with talented students and staff to create innovative productions that shine like stars in the night sky. Teaching acting in English to adults has been a particularly special part of my journey, as I've watched students blossom into confident performers.

Students Performing in the English Theater Final Show at the Cantiere Theater, Rome

During my time with R.O.S.A., I've brought stories to life on stage through directing plays that captivated and inspired audiences, taught acting classes in English to both kids and adults, helping them find their voice and confidence, and woven art and music into productions, adding depth and texture to the performances. I've collaborated with students, staff, and community members to create productions that resonated with the heart of our community and witnessed students grow and develop their skills, like flowers blooming in a garden.

English Theater Course at Cadlolo School, Rome

As I reflect on my time with R.O.S.A., I wonder about the possibilities of taking our productions to new heights, exploring new venues, and sharing our creativity with a wider audience. Perhaps we could further develop opportunities for students to engage with the community through theatre, creating a ripple effect of art and inspiration.

Students smile for the camera during English Theater Course at Cadlolo School, Rome

I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have worked with Mariarosy Calleri and to have been a part of R.O.S.A.'s mission to foster creativity and artistic expression. The students, staff, and community members have been a source of inspiration, and I appreciate the organization's commitment to providing a platform for artistic growth and development. Teaching adult classes has been a highlight of my journey, as I've seen students overcome their fears and shine with confidence. I'm thankful for the opportunity to have made a positive impact on the lives of my students.

Adult English Theater Course, Final Show

Caterina Martusciello

I am a children’s book illustrator based in Rome. I’ve collaborated with several Italian publishing houses, including Gribaudo and Rizzoli, and for many years, I have been teaching art to children in schools—from early childhood through middle school.

Childhood, and everything related to the world of children, has always been my greatest inspiration. This is why illustration and art workshops have, over time, become one and the same for me. For the past ten years, I have been working with R.O.S.A. and Mariarosy Calleri, leading art workshops in schools across central Rome—from the Green Summer Camp in 2017 at Grilli School, to the workshops at Alberto Cadlolo School, and with Virgilio's middle school students. My bond with ROSA is rooted in a shared vision, the driving force behind our work and what we strive to convey in every workshop: the importance of connecting authentically and deeply with others and the world around us.

Primary school students painting in our Art Lab

With R.O.S.A., we nurture this connection all year long, helping children and teens unlock their profound creativity and embrace their freest, purest creative process. Every workshop begins with observing nature, studying great 20th-century artists, and exploring illustrated children’s books. Following some guidance on artistic techniques, each child is free to create at their own pace and skill level, without worrying about achieving a "perfect" final result.

Kindergarten students painting during our Art Lab

The goal of these courses is to foster the creative process—not to produce a polished final piece that adults might deem aesthetically beautiful. Art, observing nature and our surroundings, and hands-on material exploration can be powerful tools for self-expression.

Beyond expressing who we are, working with clay, papier-mâché, paint, and the gestures of art helps children recognize, name, and shape their emotions—laying the foundation for developing emotional intelligence.

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." —Pablo Picasso"